These are unprecedented and turbulent times as life is on hold, with little clue as to when things will get back to normal. As our School is closed to all but our key-workers’ children, all our children have had to suddenly adapt to a life without friends around, as well as missing their sports and other activities. As parents, in addition to managing the boredom, we also need to be aware of the anxiety our children will feel; worried about their grandparents and elderly family and friends, the financial strain that many families will be under and concern for their own health too. Childline has said it has given over 300 counselling sessions over the last week to children and young people who have been worried about Covid-19.
Whilst we are all under a great deal of stress and naturally feeling anxious and uncertain, hopefully we can also take comfort from support of neighbourhoods springing into action to help each other and online support groups offering company and advice to those self-isolating. I have written before about the many and varied benefits of reading upon mental health, so it is great to see the book world is also uniting to offer love and support to families, with some well-known authors and illustrators hosting virtual storytimes and workshops which are accessible to all. Search the hashtag #OperationStoryTime on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube to find a beloved author or discover a new one. Another easily accessible source of audible stories, which is currently free, and is perfect for all age groups is https://stories.audible.com/start-listen.
Books are such a wonderful way to help children learn a little more about themselves and about the world at any time, but maybe more so when it seems hard to understand and fraught with worry. I wish you all a safe few weeks ahead and look forward to hearing all about the books that the children have read or listened to upon our return to School.
Mrs Emmett
Librarian
